The winter transfer window is rapidly approaching, and operations at Barcelona’s offices are in full flow. The reported signing of Ferran Torres in recent hours intensifies the need to clear the wage bill whilst not compromising on the team’s needs.
According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal have suggested a proposal that kills two birds with one stone.
The London based side have offered a proposal to Barcelona that could see Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang move to Camp Nou while Philippe Coutinho moves to Emirates.
The deal would be an end to the misery the players involved, both of whom are under severe lows in their career.
After dominating the goalscoring charts across two leagues for years, Aubameyang has had tough times under Mikel Arteta. Earlier this month, the striker was stripped of his captaincy for a ‘disciplinary breach’, in what can definitely be considered rock bottom.
His numbers do not do him any favours, either. With just four goals in 14 games in the Premier League, the 32-year-old on course to his worst season since 2009/10.
Coutinho has faced a similar situation at Barcelona, though not for disciplinary reasons. The Brazilian has struggled to find his feet in the Catalan capital since his arrival at the club from Liverpool. Despite being Barcelona’s most expensive signing ever, he has gone out on loan once, and has been reduced to bench appearances right now.
The deal would be win-win situation for the Catalans, as it would not only lower the wage bill by slashing Coutinho’s salary but also solve the team’s problems in front of goal.
The board are looking to strengthen the side with strategic signings in January. However, that will only be possible if the existing wage bill is reduced. Given that Coutinho is one of the club’s highest earners and is open to a Premier League return, this could be the ideal chance to sell him.
